Brewers’ Burnes nearly faints in sweltering heat, fans 13 in 1-0 win over Reds

In a scorching game against the Cincinnati Reds, Corbin Burnes of the Milwaukee Brewers battled through extreme heat, striking out an impressive 13 batters en route to a 1-0 victory on Friday night.

Despite the sweltering conditions with temperatures reaching 91 degrees and suffocating humidity, Burnes powered through, momentarily collapsing in the fifth inning but bouncing back to strike out the side in the sixth. Victor Caratini’s timely single in the seventh secured the lone run of the game for the Brewers.

Following his tenth strikeout, Burnes crouched behind the mound, experiencing dizziness and blurred vision. Brewers manager Craig Counsell clarified that it wasn’t a hydration issue but rather a brief moment of lightheadedness akin to the sensation of lifting something heavy. After regrouping with the help of trainers and taking a few warm-up pitches, Burnes returned to retire Matt McLain, ending the inning.

Burnes, now 8-5, expressed how this was a new experience for him, describing the scary moment as his vision went blurry and his eyes crossed. However, after hydrating and taking a moment, the 28-year-old right-hander recovered swiftly.

Counsell initially contemplated removing Burnes from the game but was impressed by his rapid improvement, culminating in the impressive sixth inning where he struck out the side. Burnes completed six innings, allowing only two hits and two walks, while helping the Brewers pull even with the Reds atop the NL Central standings.

Cincinnati manager David Bell acknowledged Burnes’ dominant performance, noting that his increased usage of breaking balls contributed to his success alongside his formidable fastball.

Devin Williams sealed the victory with his 21st save, solidifying the Brewers’ two out of three series win against the Reds before the All-Star break.

In a historical feat for the Milwaukee franchise, the Brewers achieved consecutive 1-0 shutout wins over the Reds, a testament to their exceptional pitching staff. Brewers manager Craig Counsell praised the team’s strong pitching efforts, particularly against a potent Reds lineup known for their run production.

On the injury front, Brewers third baseman Brian Anderson was scratched from the lineup due to low-back discomfort. Outfielder Tyrone Taylor returned from the 10-day injured list, while first baseman Rowdy Tellez is expected to make his comeback in Philadelphia on Tuesday after dealing with a right forearm issue.

For the Reds, right-hander Hunter Greene made progress in his recovery from right hip stiffness, reaching Level 3 of his core stability program, allowing him to resume mound work. Left-hander Nick Lodolo continues his throwing program, with both pitchers anticipated to return in August.

Looking ahead, Reds left-hander Andrew Abbott (4-1, 2.38 ERA) is slated to start on Saturday against Brewers right-hander Freddy Peralta (5-7, 4.70 ERA).

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